The Pewter Society was founded in 1918 as the Society of Pewter Collectors and is the second oldest society devoted to collecting specialised antiques.

Why you should join the Pewter Society

The Pewter Society consists of individuals, museums, academic institutions and historical societies from around the world, all interested in antique pewter, its makers and all aspects of its historical context. It is above all, a society of collectors, who come from all walks of life and whose interests cover the whole range of pewter wares.

What does the Pewter Society offer that you cannot obtain online or through other sources? A lot!

The Pewter Society Database of British & Irish makers and their marks is the most comprehensive record of its type. It supercedes all printed publications on the subject, is being constantly updated and it is only available to members! Carry the Database around with you via your mobile phone when visiting auctions, antiques fairs and antique shops.

The Pewter Society Journal is an internationally recognised publication produced twice a year containing articles on latest research by members and other aspects of antique pewter. Available only to members.

Three meetings a year, including an AGM at Pewterers’ Hall in London and weekend meetings at locations across the country. Here you have the opportunity to listen to talks on a variety of subjects, view and handle lots of pewter and talk on an informal basis with other members, all happy to share their knowledge.

At the two main meetings, you can also buy and sell pewter and related books in the Society members’ auction.

Study visits to museums, etc. to view and handle reserve collections – visits have included The Fitzwilliam in Cambridge, the Mary Rose in Portsmouth and the V&A in London

Membership is the very best way to increase your knowledge and enjoyment of antique pewter.

And all this for just £35 a year for full membership*

*Full joint membership for two at the same address £40 pa. Membership fee does not include meeting costs. Associate Membership £30 pa (cannot attend meetings)

Why collect British pewter?

It has a subtle beauty, is very tactile and comes in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. It often has a soft, lustrous sheen but the colour can alter depending on the conditions it has been kept in over the years making for a more interesting display.

As it was used throughout society, from royal households to the very poorest people, it gives areal link with the past and a sense of continuity with previous owners over many centuries.

With such a wide time span and variety of goods items can be found to suit every pocket.

Like silver, it is often stamped with maker's marks and engraved with ownner's marks which can be satisfying to identify.

It is low maintenance, being a very stable alloy, an occasional rub with a soft cloth or wash in warm, soapy water is usually sufficient to keep it looking attractive.

Help from the Pewter Society

The Society is willing to help members of the public identify individual items of pewter if we can.

This service is free, but it is not available to dealers nor to individuals if the sole purpose of the identification is to facilitate the sale of the item.